WILD FOR THE PLANET AT THE LOS ANGELES ZOO

The kids were excited to attend media day for The Los Angeles Zoo's new WILD FOR THE PLANET which had it's debut on Saturday, April 23 in celebration of "Earth Day.” It runs on five weekends, concluding Sunday, May 22, 2016, following "Endangered Species Day,” with activities, fun and information that all spotlight the importance of protecting the environment and its creatures. 

While waiting for the doors to open, we learned that the Zoo is home to a diverse collection of 1,100 animals representing 250 different species, many of which are rare or endangered.

We entered the Zoo and learned about all the special opportunities, entertainment, and tips about everyday ways to sustain and preserve. 

My son and nephew enjoyed the colorful, wildlife-themed sculpture comprised of paintings of local threatened species, including the monarch butterfly, mountain lion, peregrine falcon and steelhead trout. These were made with help from 200 underserved Northeast Los Angeles youth in the Wild Art program of RuckusRoots, a sustainable non-profit arts organization.

One of the best parts of the day was when our family learned how to make a positive impact on the environment during an interactive puppet show, held at 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm. It starred a brave raccoon leading a quest to save an endangered species. 

 

Luke and JR enjoyed the special animal feedings and zoo keeper talks. Each weekend day featuring two animals, among them Tasmanian devils, giraffes, tigers, mountain tapir, chimps, elephants, jaguars, okapi, orangutans, pronghorn sheep, lions, gorillas, snow leopards, cassowary, zebras, Komodo dragons, tomistomas and flamingos. 

Visitors can post their conservation action pledge to reduce their impact on the planet’s natural resources on a Pledge Wall.

The kids shared that they would shorten their showers, use filtered water versus bottled water, and turn off the water when they brushed their teeth.

 

Other Earth-friendly actions that guests are encouraged to take include participation in the L.A. Zoo's electronic device recycling program.  Each contribution of a retired cell phone, smartphone, iPod, iPad, tablet or MP3 player directly benefits animal conservation programs and reduces the demand for mineral mining that threatens the natural habitats of endangered animals such as the western lowland gorilla.

The whole day was just wonderful. From the beautiful sunny Saturday morning spending time with family  to all the awesome tips on conserving water and lessening our carbon footprint. We came home and took a walk around the home to incorporate the lessons we learned at The Zoo.    

Thank you to the Los Angeles Zoo for complimentary admission to the Zoo for my family.

All reviews of the Zoo are mine.

The Los Angeles Zoo is located at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways in Griffith Park.  5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA  90027.  Free parking is available.  For tickets and additional information, contact (323) 644-6001 or visit lazoo.org

Admission to the Los Angeles Zoo is $20 for general admission (ages 13 to 61); $17 for seniors (ages 62+), and $15 for children (ages 2 to 12).  Admission for children under 2 and Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association members is free.